Long-serving RNLI volunteer David Richmond-Coggan BEM has taken his fundraising to new heights, completing a 15,000ft skydive in support of the charity’s lifesaving work.
At 77 years old, David jumped from an aircraft at Salisbury (Old Sarum) on Saturday 12th September, raising more than £1,000 so far for the RNLI.
The challenge was the latest demonstration of David’s commitment to the charity he has volunteered with for more than 17 years.
Now Chair of the RNLI East Dorset Lifeguards Fundraisers, David regularly encourages others to volunteer, fundraise and take on challenges for the charity. Leading from the front, he has always maintained that he would never ask somebody to do something he would not be prepared to do himself.
That promise led him to face one of his biggest personal challenges yet, stepping out of an aircraft at 15,000ft.
David said:
“I have always said that I would never ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t be willing to do myself. I spend a lot of time encouraging people to challenge themselves and support the RNLI, so it felt only right that I should take my own advice.
“I would be lying if I said there weren’t a few nerves when the moment came to leave the aircraft, but it was an absolutely incredible experience. Knowing why I was doing it, and thinking about everybody who had supported me, gave me the courage to take that final step.
“The RNLI and our local lifeguards mean a tremendous amount to me. Every pound raised helps to provide the training and equipment needed to keep people safe and save lives. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, shared the fundraiser or supported me along the way.”
David’s connection to the RNLI is deeply personal. His father-in-law’s life was saved by the charity during the Second World War, giving him a further 55 years of life. David credits that rescue with giving him the opportunity to meet his late wife, Hazel, and have his children and grandchildren.
Since becoming an RNLI volunteer, David has delivered hundreds of talks, promoted water safety to thousands of children and young people, supported volunteer recruitment and raised vital funds for the charity.
His contribution to maritime safety was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2025, when he was awarded the British Empire Medal.
Although the jump has now been completed, supporters can still contribute to David’s fundraising total at https://gofund.me/skydive
David added:
“The skydive may be over, but the RNLI’s work continues every day. If this encourages even one more person to donate, volunteer or learn how to stay safe around water, every second of the experience will have been worthwhile.
“This skydive was extra special because it was undertaken together with others in BNI Dorset and in addition to the funds raised for the RNLI Lifeguards, has also raised funds for the Steve Bernard Foundation, Poole Community Exchange and The Centre Ferndown – the other charities within BNI Dorset.”
BNI or Business Networking International, is a worldwide business networking and referral organisation, which has a chapter in Dorset.
Press release and image – The Inspiration Agency